Child Trafficking Crisis in Quintana Roo: Report Warns of Criminal Recruitment and Exploitation

Quintana Roo, Mexico — Child trafficking in Quintana Roo has become one of the most severe hotspots in Mexico, according to the annual report from the Network for Children’s Rights in Mexico (Redim). The report warns that children and adolescents face criminal violence, economic hardship, and internal migration in urban and tourist zones.

Quintana Roo Leads Nation in Child Trafficking Cases

During 2025, Quintana Roo ranked among the states with the highest concentration of trafficking victims aged 0 to 17. From January to November, authorities recorded 187 recognized victims, including 51 underage girls. The state’s rate reached 17.9 cases per 100,000 women, far exceeding the national average of 0.74 cases.

Disappearances and Corruption of Minors Worsen Situation

The National Registry reported 376 people disappeared in the state in 2025, with one in five under 19 years old. Authorities also opened 150 investigation files for corruption of minors. Among adolescents, 19 aged 10 to 14 and 24 aged 15 to 19 were reported missing.

Criminal Recruitment and Tourism Create Dangerous Mix

Redim warned that Quintana Roo is among states where minors face criminalization and persecution for occupying public spaces. Municipalities like Benito Juárez, Solidaridad, and Puerto Morelos experience high tourist pressure and criminal activity, where protection systems fail to prevent sexual and labor exploitation.

Youth Unemployment Fuels Criminal Recruitment

According to INEGI (national statistics agency) data, the 15-25 age group represents 41% of the state’s unemployed population, equivalent to 5,685 jobless youth. Benito Juárez and Othón P. Blanco municipalities report the highest numbers. Deceptive job offers serve as recruitment mechanisms, with the State Prosecutor’s Office confirming criminal networks use social media and video games for recruitment.

Justice System and Adolescent Defendants

The National Public Security Census reported 628 adolescents charged in 2023, with 39 held in the Adolescent Measures Execution Center. In 2024, authorities documented 186 charges against minors for serious crimes including homicide, femicide, and organized crime.

Limited Institutional Responses

The Quintana Roo Youth Institute allocated approximately 3 million pesos to rural productive projects but acknowledged structural obstacles in accessing financing. State authorities admit forced recruitment persists, with recent cases showing victims transported to safe houses after fake job offers. The report reveals a persistent paradox: while the state promotes itself as an international destination, many young people face exclusion and vulnerability.